Anambra APC Denies  Plot to Derail Congress, Describes Allegations Against Ekwunife, Duru as Baseless, Misleading

The Anambra State Chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has strongly dismissed a petition authored by Hon. Mike Ugwa and Mr. Kenechukwu Nzekwe, which accuses Nze Chidi Duru and Senator Uche Ekwunife of plotting to derail the party’s forthcoming congress in the state.
In a statement titled “RE: Petition Written by Hon. Mike Ugwa, Kene Nzekwe and Co.”, the APC Anambra State Publicity Secretary, Mr. Chris Okey Udeze, described the allegations as grossly unfortunate, irresponsible, and capable of undermining internal party cohesion.
Udeze noted that Senator Uche Ekwunife and Nze Chidi Duru, the National Deputy Organising Secretary of the APC, are distinguished and long-standing members of the party who have made immense sacrifices for its growth in Anambra State and beyond.

“It is rather shocking that anyone in his right senses would accuse these two leaders of attempting to destabilise a party they laboured so hard to build. Nobody destroys a beautiful house he or she invested so much effort in constructing,” Udeze stated.

He questioned the timing and logic of the allegations, especially as the congress committee is yet to commence its assignment.
“How did the issue of derailing the congress suddenly become a major concern when the committee has not even begun its work? As politicians, we know the antecedents and modus operandi of one another. The composition of leaders at the high table during the Expanded Caucus Meeting speaks volumes,” he said.
Udeze further explained that the Expanded Caucus Meeting, referenced in the petition, was widely acknowledged as successful and transparent. According to him, the meeting unanimously resolved to set up a committee to assist the party in organising a rancour-free, credible, and inclusive congress.
“The committee was openly constituted without objections from any quarter. The minutes of that meeting are available for verification. It is therefore dishonest to misrepresent those proceedings for personal political gain,” he added.
He accused Hon. Ugwa of resorting to blackmail and distortion of facts in pursuit of his ambition to contest for a position in the party’s National Working Committee (NWC).
“You don’t cut off your nose to look handsome. Starting a political journey with blackmail is not only reckless but counterproductive,” Udeze warned.
The APC spokesman also questioned the standing of the petitioners within the party.
“Who are Hon. Mike Ugwa and Mr. Kenechukwu Nzekwe in the APC? What are their tangible contributions to the party at their wards and local government areas? Our records show no meaningful impact attributable to them,” he said.
Udeze further alleged that the gathering referenced in the petition was sponsored by a covert participant at the caucus meeting, claiming that ₦5,000 was allegedly shared among attendees of what he described as a “shameful and despicable outing.”
He, however, highlighted the remarkable progress recorded by the APC in Anambra State in recent years.
“Even the worst critics will admit that today’s APC in Anambra State is significantly different from what it used to be. Our party has witnessed a massive influx of members from other political parties, now outnumbering the original members a clear testament to improved leadership and performance. Nothing comes out of nothing,” Udeze said.
He reassured party members and the public that the APC in Anambra State remains committed to conducting an all-inclusive, transparent, free, and credible congress.
“Crying wolf where none exists is a poor way to begin. Running down party leaders for selfish interests has never benefited us and will never do so,” he stated.
Udeze called on party members to disregard the petition and remain calm, united, and focused, stressing that the APC has constitutional mechanisms for resolving grievances.
“If issues arise, there are laid-down constitutional processes for addressing them. Blackmail, name-calling, anarchy, and violence can never bring peace or progress,” he concluded.
He reaffirmed that the APC in Anambra State remains united, focused, and determined to deepen internal democracy ahead of the forthcoming congress.